Archive · 19 Nov 2025
Venezuelan Doctor Sentenced to 30 Years for Criticizing Maduro on WhatsApp
A Venezuelan doctor, Marggie Orozco, was sentenced to 30 years in prison for criticizing President Nicolás Maduro's government in a WhatsApp message.
She was arrested during political unrest after Maduro's disputed reelection.
Orozco has suffered health issues while in detention.
There are many other political prisoners in Venezuela.
Marggie Orozco, 65, sentenced to 30 years for criticizing Maduro's government in a WhatsApp message
Charged with treason, incitement to hatred, and conspiracy
Arrested in August 2024 during political unrest following Maduro's disputed reelection
Orozco suffered two heart attacks while detained
About 882 political prisoners in Venezuelan jails, according to Foro Penal
- Who
- Marggie Orozco, 65, a Venezuelan doctor
- What
- Sentenced to 30 years in prison for criticizing Maduro's government on WhatsApp
- When
- August 2024
- Where
- San Juan de Colón, Venezuela
- Why
- For criticizing Maduro's government and inciting hatred, according to the court
Government's Perspective
Human Rights Groups' Perspective
Message Content
Government's Perspective
Not disclosed by the government
Human Rights Groups' Perspective
Criticism of Maduro's government, according to rights groups
Orozco's Intent
Government's Perspective
Perceived as disloyal by community leaders
Human Rights Groups' Perspective
Expressing personal opinion, according to rights groups
- Sentence
- 30 years in prison
- Charges
- Treason, incitement to hatred, and conspiracy
- Arrest Date
- August 2024
- Location of Arrest
- San Juan de Colón, Venezuela
- Number of Political Prisoners in Venezuela
- About 882
